Yearlong Connections

Health/Physical Education* (Available as a yearlong preference for all 3 grade levels)

This yearlong course exposes the students to both health & physical education concepts through individual courses in both disciplines. Students selecting this option as a preference will comp-lete 1 semester of PE and 1 semester of Health. The instructors of the course work to ensure that all students are provided with essential life skills to help them make smart decisions & develop strong refusal skills. At the end of the physical education course, the students should be able to meet national physical education standards for physical literacy as well as the state & district standards. 

 

Junior Leadership Corps (JLC) - Yearlong* (Available as a yearlong preference for all 3 grade levels)

This yearlong course prepares students for responsible leadership roles, while making them aware of their individual responsibilities and privileges as an American citizen. In JLC, cadets learn to plan, organize, teamwork, leadership and discipline. These skills will make them successful in their academic, personal and professional lives.  We encourage cadets to work hard as they “Enter to Learn and Leave to Lead.” Additionally, there are opportunities for the students to participate in extracurricular activities such as color guard, flag detail, exhibition drill team, regulation drill team, and Raider’s team. These teams compete against other Gwinnett County Middle Schools. Future world leaders are in the JLC class, and we are changing tomorrow by educating today’s youth. *Students and parents should be aware that there are required nominal fees associated with this yearlong course to offset costs.

We also offer a semester-long course. The semester course teaches minimum leadership traits and skills to help students be successful in their academics.

 

Physical Education 

This semester course is composed of activities in a planned program that provides students the opportunity to develop healthier bodies and attitudes toward physical fitness. There is a focus on improved physical fitness of all students.

 

Advanced Physical Education* (Available on the survey for rising 7^th and 8th graders)

This yearlong course introduces students to the benefits of weightlifting and cardiovascular exercise to gain strength, speed, agility and endurance.  We will focus on and improve our muscular fitness and cardiovascular endurance using light to moderate weights.

Latin* (Available on the survey for rising 7th graders)

The semester-long course is an introduction to the Latin language and Greek and Roman mythology. Students learn to read and speak Latin in a low-stress environment.  They also learn how to read and communicate about daily topics, animals, colors and clothing and make comparisons between the ancient and modern world.  

The year-long Latin course begins in 7th grade and runs through 8th grade. Students learn the Latin language, Greek and Roman mythology, and Roman history. The curriculum is aligned with that of Latin I at Parkview HS and provides students the opportunity to earn a Carnegie Unit (high school credit) upon successful completion of the course. This course requires a two year commitment.

 

Reading* (Available as a yearlong preference for all 3 grade levels)  

In this year-long course students will read and examine multiple texts from different authors in a wide range of genres. Students will have the opportunity to participate not only in whole class but also independent choice book studies. Students will reflect on their learning by completing quick writes and digital choice projects throughout the year. 

This class will focus on thoughtful and purposeful reading necessary for a student to interpret, comprehend, and extend understanding of the author’s intent and meaning.  Students will learn evidence-based comprehension strategies through intentional selections of high-quality, rigorous, and culturally relevant curriculum.
 

Spanish* (Yearlong course available on the survey for rising 7th graders)

Students are invited to start learning one of the world's most spoken languages. They can do so by studying the language in one of two Spanish course formats: 

Year Long: Students who choose to enroll in the year-long Spanish course will not only gain an incredible foundation, correlated with a higher likelihood of lifelong fluency, but will also earn a Carnegie Unit that will allow them to jump straight to Spanish 2 in high school if they pass Spanish 1 over the course of 7th and 8th grade. Students will learn to have basic conversations in Spanish, as well as delve into one of the most beautiful cultures on planet earth. This class is sure to create lifelong global citizens with a passion for languages, culture and life! Current 6th graders can select this option in the Connections Preference Survey. This course requires a two year commitment.

Semester-long course: In this exploratory course, students will learn how to have brief written and oral exchanges in Spanish and dive into all facets of the culture of the Spanish speaking world. The goal of this course is to give students an opportunity to be exposed to the language and culture, in hopes they will choose to enroll in Spanish 1 in high school and continue on with it into their higher education experience. 

 

STEAM (6^th grade)* (Available to rising 6th graders)

In this yearlong course, one semester focuses on media arts skills. This communication-centered course exposes students to a variety of media formats including graphic design, videography and podcasting. Students will develop skills in script-writing, storyboarding, video and audio-editing. The other semester provides an exploratory foundation in business office administration and support. Through interactive activities, students will have opportunities to apply employability skills and to research career options in the business administration area. They will also complete many technology-based activities to build a strong foundation in integrated software applications and standard office procedures. Electronic portfolio projects will be updated at the completion of all units.

 

STEAM (7^th grade)* (Available on the survey for rising 7th graders)

In this yearlong course, one semester focuses on media arts skills. This communication-centered course exposes students to a variety of media formats including graphic design, videography and podcasting. Students will develop skills in script-writing, storyboarding, video and audio-editing. This course builds on the skills learned in 6th grade STEAM, but new students may also apply. The other semester provides an exploratory foundation in business management operations. Through interactive activities, students will have opportunities to apply employability skills and to research career options. They will also complete many hands-on activities to build a strong foundation in integrated software applications, financial literacy, web design, and standard office procedures. Electronic portfolio projects will be updated at the completion of all units.

 

STEAM - Introduction to Business Technology* (Available on the survey for rising 8th graders)

This yearlong course is the introductory course for the Business Accounting pathway.  Students will be provided an overview of business and technology skills required for today's business environment and will learn business principles, the impact of financial decisions, and technology proficiencies demanded by business.  Emphasis is placed on developing proficient fundamental computer skills required for all career pathways. Students will also learn essentials for working in a business environment, managing a business, and owning a business.  Students who successfully complete this course can earn a Carnegie Unit (high school credit).

 

STEM 6th Grade* (Available to rising 6th graders)

The goal of this STEM Cohort course is to provide all students with an introduction to the principles of Engineering and Computer Science. Students will explore Engineering & Technology as they work through the engineer design process, while looking at technological impacts on society. Students will explore STEM related careers, work ethics, and leadership skills. Students will explore the foundations of Computer Programming concepts, physical computing and the problem solving process. In 6th grade we also explore programming concepts and languages like Scratch and Python and work with MicroBits. Students will have an opportunity to apply the engineering design process to solve real world problems, analyze data to make data-driven decisions and demonstrate concepts they learn through hands-on projects and design challenges.  Computer Science and Engineering are combined into one yearlong in our STEM program.  Students who select this course as a preference will have completed both courses by the end of the year.

 

STEM 7th Grade* (Available on the survey for rising 7th graders)

This STEM Cohort course is designed to introduce students to the world of invention and innovation along with the Engineering Design Process & Foundations of Secure Information Systems. Students will examine the impacts of invention and innovation on society, and solve problems through research, design, and experimentation in one or more of the areas of Engineering and Technology. The course content includes an introduction to Engineering and Computer Science careers, Computer Hardware and Networking Components, Cybersecurity, Digital Citizenship, Robotics and Animatronics. Students complete several hands-on design challenges throughout the year in STEM. Computer Science and Engineering are combined into one yearlong in our STEM program.  Students who select this course as a preference will have completed both courses by the end of the year.

STEM - Foundations of Engineering* (Available on the survey for rising 8th graders)

The Foundations of Engineering and Technology is the introductory course for the Engineering and Technology Education pathways. This STEM driven course provides the students with an overview of engineering and technology, including the different methods used in the engineering design process, developing fundamental technology and engineering literacy. Students will demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have learned through various project-based activities while using an engineering design process to successfully master the “E” in STEM.

This course is a Carnegie Unit course which will offer these students an opportunity to earn high school credit for this course. Students who take this course can move onto the next level in the Engineering pathway in their first year in high school.

 

STEM - Foundations of Interactive Design & Digital Media Arts (Computer Science)* (Available on the survey for rising 8th graders)

This course will have students explore the foundations of design and development of websites while they build their own websites. This course will also explore the design approach to how video games are created and has students learning to code their own video game. Along with opportunities to apply employability skills and to research possible career options in information technology. The Media Arts curriculum in this course expands students’ critical thinking abilities, creativity and curiosity. Students will develop their unique creativity and problem-solving skills through technology-based projects. Students will explore multiple digital art platforms, such as animation, graphic design/illustration, storyboarding, and digital design. Students who successfully complete these courses will be prepared to choose from the following pathways upon entering high school: Web & Digital Design, Computer Science Principles and Game Design.

Yearbook (8^th grade)*  (Available on the survey for rising 8th graders)

In this yearlong course, the Yearbook Staff participates in the complete production of the Trickum yearbook. Our team of students works together to photograph, design, produce, and sell a book for printing that will capture our school’s memories. The focus will be on producing both the yearbook and student-made documentaries on various topics. An application is required to be selected for this course.

Art

This semester course offers the students an opportunity to express emotions and feelings and connect art with academic classes through drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and ceramics while learning to appreciate art as a creative vehicle both personally and for others. Students will learn about the elements and principles of art as well as art history.

 

Advanced Visual Arts* (Available to rising 8th graders)

This course will dive deeper into all mediums of art as well as artist studies and the foundations of art creation.  Students must submit a portfolio of 3 pieces to be considered for the course. Completion of previous visual art courses at Trickum MS is not a prerequisite. Upon completion of this course, students may receive a recommendation to exempt Intro to Art and move to a higher level art course as a 9th grader at Parkview HS.

 

Band*

The Trickum Middle School Band Program is a comprehensive program for all students in 6th-8th grade who want to learn how to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. Our program focuses on the development of students as individuals, as well as musicians, by providing multiple avenues for musical exploration and expression while also teaching skills such as cooperation, responsibility, confidence, and leadership. The TMS Band is often referred to as a “band family,” and once you experience it for yourself, it is easy to understand why. We take pride in being a place where students from all walks of life come together to make music. Whether you enjoy learning an instrument in class, swinging with the jazz band, or having fun cheering on the basketball team with the pep band, the Trickum Band family has a place for you!

 

Chorus*

This yearlong course offers the students an opportunity to incorporate a variety of aspects of music, vocal singing, score reading, live performance, and musical drama in grades 6, 7, and 8.

 

Guitar*

Guitar offers students the opportunity to develop and express themselves through music and the guitar. Students do NOT need any prior experience to join in 6th grade.  Later in the year, 6th grade students can join Honors Guitar Club, participate in 6th Grade Guitar Day and will give two performances at TMS.  In 7th and 8th grade, students will have the opportunity to learn the electric guitar, electric bass and join Rock Guitar Club.  

 

Orchestra*

This is a yearlong course where students will have the opportunity to play the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students do not need any prior experience to join in the 6th grade. In 7th grade, returning students are placed in Intermediate orchestra. Any rising 7th grader that did not sign up for in 6th grade are invited to sign up for the beginning 7th grade orchestra class. All Orchestra students will get to showcase their talents at concerts throughout the year. For advanced 6th, 7th, and 8th grade orchestra students, there is an honor orchestra that performs multiples times during the school year.

 

Theatre Arts

This one-semester course offers students the opportunity to explore the basic facets of Drama including literature, technical theatre and performing techniques. We focus on creating, writing, responding, and connecting to the world around us through the medium of theatre. Students will learn a variety of theatre games and skills to broaden their confidence in public speaking, and artistic expression. 

 

Advanced Theatre Arts (7^th Grade)* (Available to rising 7th graders)

The year-long 7th Grade Advanced Theatre Ensemble is called THE TIGER PLAYERS! Students may request placement in this group by application or instructor approval.  No experience is necessary, but students in Tiger Players must commit to developing their artistic expressions skills in the production of several short plays twice per year (Fall and Spring). Rehearsal and production activities will comprise 50% of the overall grade in the course and are a required component. Students are expected to participate actively in the production process and should be prepared for some extracurricular rehearsals in the two weeks leading up to the productions.  Students in this course are offered the opportunity to participate in DRAMARAMA (GCPS Middle School Theatre Festival) and GA Jr. Thespian Conference (the statewide Middle School Theatre Festival). *Students and parents should be aware that there are required fees associated with this course to offset production costs. 

 

Advanced Theatre Production (8^th grade)* (Available to rising 8th graders)

The year-long course 8th Grade Advanced Theatre Ensemble is called THE RISING STARS! Students may request placement in this group by application or instructor approval.  No experience is necessary, but students in RISING STARS are expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment to the production of our fall and spring shows at Trickum.  Special attention and training will be presented during the course in audition techniques and portfolio preparation for those who wish to apply to SOTA (School of the Arts), advanced courses at the high school level, and county and/or state competitions for theatre.  Rehearsal and production activities will comprise 50% of the overall grade in the course and are a required component. Students are expected to participate actively in the production process and should be prepared for some extracurricular rehearsals in the two weeks leading up to the productions.  Students in this course are actively encouraged to participate in DRAMARAMA (GCPS Middle School Theatre Festival), and GA Jr. Thespian Conference (the statewide Middle School Theatre Festival). *Students and parents should be aware that there are required fees associated with this course to offset production costs.